Abstract
There are some deficiencies in the current understanding of the influence of gradation size on the crack resistance of asphalt mixtures. This study first uses the particle flow code (PFC) to perform virtual semi-circular bending (SCB) tests to explore the effect of gradation changes on the fracture properties of asphalt mixtures and determine the related influence rules. The conclusions are then verified through indoor tests. The results show that for samples with the same nominal maximum particle size and different gradations, the crack resistance of the asphalt mixtures cannot be improved by simply increasing or decreasing the coarse aggregate content. Changes in both the coarse aggregate content and specific surface area have a parabolic correlation with the fracture properties of the asphalt mixtures. Based on these relationships, the reference value ranges of the coarse aggregate content and specific surface area of AC-20 asphalt mixtures for optimal crack resistance can be calculated as 52.02%–54.02% and 5.72–6.06 m2/kg, respectively. Calculation methods and suggestions are provided based on the presented research conclusions for improving the crack resistance of asphalt mixtures by optimising the gradation in pavement engineering and these conclusions have a certain promotion significance.
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